A Grounded Start to Mental Health Awareness Month: ‘Morning Pause’ Sets the Tone in Providenciales

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 23^rd May 2025 – Mental Health Awareness Month 2025 began with a powerful and heartfelt gathering as the Department of Behavioural Health Services hosted its first Morning Pause & Panel Discussion on May 7th on the island of Providenciales. The event was held under the timely theme “Mental Health: Working in Paradise”, and centered on the local focus of “Community and Bridging Gaps.”

Moderated by Ms. Tiara McTaire, Mental Health Education Specialist, the morning session created space for meaningful dialogue, practical insights, and shared experiences from both panelists and attendees.

Panelists included:

• Dr. Jadetra Ingraham, Clinical Psychologist at the Department of Behavioural Health Services
• Mrs. Stacey-Ann Wharton Albert, Director of Human Resources, Culture, and Community Affairs at Sailrock, South Caicos, Chairperson of the People Development Committee, and Vice President of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA)
• Mrs. Joanna Fortunate, Director of Human Resources at Grace Bay Club

The session was opened by Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, who offered heartfelt remarks on the department’s commitment to bringing mental health and wellness conversations into every corner of the community, from government to hospitality, and beyond. She emphasized that this year’s approach is not just about awareness, but about connection, collaboration, and sustained action.

The discussion touched on real workplace challenges and opportunities, including how employers are investing in the holistic well-being of their teams, how individuals can take charge of their mental wellness, and how available resources can be better accessed and shared. The conversation was honest and relatable, with an emphasis on not just surviving work in paradise, but thriving in it.

Participants shared their own stories and questions, creating a sense of belonging and unity in the room. Many left expressing that they felt less overwhelmed, more hopeful, and, most importantly, with a personal plan of action they could take back to their teams and incorporate into their daily lives.

Commenting on the initiative, Hon. Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that “This panel is part of a larger series of events and initiatives by the Department aimed at bridging gaps between sectors, services, and everyday experiences, helping to normalize mental health as part of the broader community conversation. This was more than a panel, it was a reminder that we’re not alone, and that with the right support, together, we can create healthier workplaces and stronger communities.”

For more information, please contact the Department of Behavioural Health Services:

Zone 1 (Grand Turk/South Caicos, Salt Cay) 649 338 3613

Zone 2 (Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos) 649 338 3616

Also, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS and @TCIDBHS on Instagram.